A Visit to Homeboy Industries With Jamie Lynne Grumet

My friend Jamie Lynne Grumet – recently on the cover of Time nursing her toddler Aram – is forcing me to step out of my comfort zone. At last tally she’s gotten me to join her at far-flung speakeasies for a trip to the roaring 20s, she’s convinced me to bring my family to South Africa on safari, but also to visit orphanages and townships that need support. And just last Monday she got me to come with her to Homeboy Industries.

Jamie, Dre, Shannon and Edward at Homeboy Industries

Homeboy Industries is in the business of helping gang bangers and criminals to get jobs and reform their lives. Our tour guide, Edward, shared his story which included a 10-year stint in prison. So I found it touching when he told our group that he was nervous talking to us, that public speaking scares him. It reminded me yet again that we’re all the same, but born to different circumstances that can shape us positively or negatively.

To read more about Homeboy Industries and what they do go to Jamie’s page HERE.

Homeboy Industries is so amazing, because not only do they make a huge impact on so many people’s lives, but they also make products that are downright delicious. Their salsas are ridiculous, and the related Homegirl industries makes the BEST “shaken salads” – they taste more like a treat than a salad!